The bill amends section 381.915 of the Florida Statutes to update definitions related to cancer centers and establish the Cancer Connect Collaborative, which will oversee the Cancer Innovation Fund. Key changes include revised definitions for "cancer center" and "Florida-based," as well as the introduction of the term "Cancer Connect Collaborative." The collaborative's composition is expanded to include more members appointed by the Governor, the President of the Senate, and the Speaker of the House, focusing on individuals with expertise in oncology. The collaborative is responsible for reviewing grant applications for the Cancer Innovation Fund, prioritizing those that enhance cancer screening and treatment in underserved areas, and ensuring that eligible health care providers meet specific criteria.

Additionally, the bill establishes the Cancer Connect Collaborative Research Incubator within the Florida Department of Health, aimed at enhancing cancer research, particularly in pediatric cancer, over a five-year period starting July 1, 2025. This incubator will provide funding through a peer-reviewed, competitive grant process, prioritizing projects that increase participation in clinical trials and foster collaborations among institutions and community practitioners. The bill also introduces the Bascom Palmer Eye Institute VisionGen Initiative within the Cancer Research Program, focusing on genetic research related to inherited eye diseases and ocular oncology. It emphasizes ethical conduct and conflict of interest policies in the grant evaluation process, ensuring fair assessment based on scientific merit.